Don't Fear Mezcal

Mezcal is a spirit shrouded in mystery. There are uninformed reputations that it's simply shoddy tequila. There are myths about dead worms and scorpions. The truth? Mezcal is a complex spirit that, like its better-known cousin tequila, is made in Mexico from the agave plant. But while tequila is mostly made from blue agave and cooked in large factory ovens, the best mezcals use espadin agave and roast it with mesquite wood in rock-lined earthen pits, producing a distinct smoky profile. It's a rustic, old world production that's been done the same way in small towns in the Mexican state of Oaxaca for generations. The result is pungent, earthy and spicy. Put another way, mezcal is to tequila what rye is to bourbon. You can sip it on the rocks or mix into your favorite tequila drinks to add a subtle, smoky punch—just don't waste it on a shot.

What's with the worm?

It's the larva of the agave snout weevil—a pest that can severely damage the agave plant. And though the custom is relatively recent, some brands began putting alcohol-cured larva in bottles as a gimmick to differentiate themselves. And no, eating the worm will not make you hallucinate.